Lynn professor encourages young artists to design their path

As an eight-year-old, Lynn University Artist-in-Residence Mark Sparacio could often be found cross-legged on his bed, surrounded by dozens of comic books. He consumed comics at warp speed, from Marvel and D.C. bestsellers to underground gems.

"I loved getting lost in the stories, but it was the artwork that drew me to the medium," Sparacio said. "I knew I wanted to be the person who could bring these iconic characters to life."

When most teens outgrow their love of comics, Sparacio persisted. He earned a spot at the School of Visual Arts in Manhattan, where he studied sequential art for three years under the legendary Will Eisner, known as the "father of the graphic novel." While studying, he received his first professional assignment, which led to a long and accomplished career as a visual artist.

Over the past four decades, Sparacio amassed an envious portfolio of advertisements for billion-dollar corporations, illustrated covers for iconic comic books and a debut graphic novel. In August 2009, he knew it was time to follow Eisner's footsteps and share his knowledge with the next generation of artists.

"It's a privilege to share my knowledge and expertise with young artists," said Sparacio. "Seeing their progress and achievements is incredibly rewarding and keeps me inspired and motivated. Their passion has reinvigorated my love for graphic art."

Sparacio instructs nine courses at Lynn, provides students with one-on-one mentoring and coordinates professional networking opportunities. But his true teaching passion lies in exposing his students to real-world experiences. Many of his students learn to curate commissions and earn credit as paid art assistants. Additionally, Sparacio's students serve as models whose images are transformed in his comics and advertisements. These experiential learning opportunities are Sparacio's preferred instructional methods for students to build impressive portfolios and find success in the job market.

"Working with Professor Sparacio has allowed me to experience the entire creative process behind building a comic book," said Christian Casais, a junior studying computer animation. "From modeling and outlining to shading and perfecting, I've been a part of many projects from start to finish."

This year, Sparacio hosted a comic book cover competition. The winning students received a cash prize, the opportunity to have their illustrations featured as variant covers for Sparacio's comic series and a two-page spread to display their work.

According to Sparacio, his role as professor and mentor is to instill confidence into budding artists looking to make their childhood dreams come true.

"I look at my students and see the eight-year-old me sitting on the floor surrounded by comic books; we're all just trying to prove we can make a career out of our passion," said Sparacio. "My role is to honor that inner comic book fan and encourage them to believe in their talent and take risks. You never know what will transpire after a few brush strokes and a lot of bravery."

Eight winners were selected by Sparacio and his partner and publisher, James Kuhoric. Four winners were chosen as variant artists for four issues of "Bombshell and TommTomm," while the remaining four were selected for four issues of "Witch Hammer." Sparacio's company, American Mythology Productions, designed and published both series.

"I've been fortunate enough to have a successful career in the world of comics, and I'm committed to giving back to my students in a meaningful way," said Sparacio. "The comic cover competition is a way for me to not only support and mentor my students, but also to give them a platform to shine and take their first step toward a career in the industry."